Local Electives:

Identify Your Interests:

• Identify specific specialties or subspecialties you want to explore during your elective.

Research Potential Sites:

• Look for institutions, hospitals, or clinics that offer electives in your chosen specialty.
• Consider factors such as reputation, available resources, and the opportunity for hands-on experience.

Plan in Advance:

• Start planning your elective well in advance to secure a spot in your preferred location.
• Be aware of any application deadlines and requirements.

Check Eligibility and Requirements:

• Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the elective program.
• Verify any specific requirements, such as vaccinations, certifications, or language proficiency, visa requirements and financial cost.

Networking:

• Connect with faculty members, residents, and professionals in your chosen specialty.
• Seek advice and recommendations regarding potential elective sites.

Customize Your Experience:

• Tailor your elective experience to match your learning objectives and career goals.
• Communicate with the elective coordinator to discuss specific areas of interest and any additional opportunities available.

Set Learning Objectives:

• Clearly define your learning objectives for the elective period.
• Discuss these objectives with your elective supervisor to ensure alignment with the program.

Professionalism:

• Maintain a high level of professionalism at all times.
• Respect the rules and regulations of the host institution, and adhere to ethical standards.

Be Proactive:

• Take initiative in your learning experience. Volunteer for procedures and seek additional learning opportunities.
• Engage with healthcare professionals and ask questions to enhance your understanding.

Reflect and Document:

• Keep a journal or log to document your experiences, challenges, and learning moments.
• Reflect on your experiences to gain insight into your strengths and areas for improvement.

Feedback and Evaluation:

• Seek feedback from your preceptors and supervisors regularly.
• The UMDC Evaluation form to be filled out once the electives are completed and sent back to us directly by the institution under the electives were done.

International Electives:

Planning:

• Begin planning for international electives well in advance.
• Identify your goals, preferred destinations, and the duration of your elective.

Consultation with Dean’s Office:

• Request a Letter of Recommendation that highlights your academic achievements, professionalism, and suitability for an international elective experience.
• Seek guidance on the application process, required documentation, and deadlines.

Research and Contact:

• Research potential host universities and their elective programs.
• Contact the international affairs or elective coordinator at the hosting university to inquire about the availability of electives and the application process.

Time Deficits:

• The deficit of time when the student is on electives has to be fulfilled during the summer vacation.

Understanding Exam Policies:

• Students cannot be exempted from the University Exam. However, the Internal Modular exam will need to be retaken upon their return.
• Use the time during your elective to stay updated on coursework and seek guidance on exam preparation.

MoU Process:

• Exchanging an Official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with other institutions needed to be signed.
• The MoU outlines the duration of the elective, responsibilities of both institutions, and academic and administrative expectations.